The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) has urged Australians to approach the upcoming March for Australia rallies with calm and respect, warning against scapegoating migrants for the country’s challenges.
The rallies, scheduled for 31 August in multiple cities, have already drawn controversy as organisers insist they are about national pride and immigration policy, while critics fear extremist groups may use the events to target culturally diverse communities.
FECCA Chair Peter Doukas OAM said Australia’s history should remind people of their shared heritage. “Except for First Nations peoples, every Australian has a migrant heritage. Singling out new arrivals or culturally diverse communities ignores our shared history and undermines the values that bind us together,” he said.
Doukas stressed that debates over policy must not slip into personal attacks. “We can hold different views on policy, but we must never allow those debates to turn into attacks on people’s identity or heritage. Our diversity is a strength, and it must be protected. We urge leaders and communities to reject any messages that promote racism or exclusion.”
FECCA has called on organisers, participants, and political figures to take responsibility for ensuring their words and actions support safety and cohesion. “Australia is strongest when its people stand together, not when they are driven apart,” the statement said.
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